About Socotra Socotra (Arabic سقطرى) An archipelago compromised of four islands located in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Somalia and Yemen (approximately in 350 km to the South from Arabian Peninsula). Socotra is one of three main islands, the other two are named Abd-el-Kuri and Samkh. There are two smaller islands located in the area: the desert island of Dars, and also the rock Sabuniya and Kal-Firaun. Considered part of Hadramaut in Yemen, territorially the island is divided into two "mudiriya" (areas): Hadibo (with an administrative center in the city of the same name) and Qalansiya and Abd-el-Kuri (with an administrative center in the city of Qalansiya) Socotra, geographically isolated millions of years of from the African continent, ultimately contributing to the unique creation of animal and flora with 37% of the 825 species of plants, 95% of land mollusks, 90% of reptiles and 70% of the birds living on the island are not seen anywhere else. This high level of endemism is what makes the island comparable and often seen as the Galapagos Islands of the Middle East. Endemic geckoes and nonpoisonous snakes are distinguished reptiles along with many more. A prized symbol of the archipelago is the endemic Draconian Tree or Dragon Blood Trees, receiving its name because of red pigmented sap that collects when the bark of the tree is picked or cut. The red color sap possesses medicinal properties and has been used since ancient times. |
Dragon Blood Tree - Dracaena Cinnabari
An icon of the island, these tree are only found on Socotra.
An icon of the island, these tree are only found on Socotra.
Create an Unforgettable Adventure!
As travelers differ in preferences, Socotra.Rafatours can help you tailor a specific itinerary to suit your needs. We arrange for large groups or solo adventures seeking to escape for a relaxing holiday or for those who seek to push their travel boundaries. See below for an array of inspiration such scub-diving along the coast, trekking the inland mountain ranges, camping, bird-watching and more!
Scuba, Snorkeling, Diving and More!
Explore the underwater world of Socotra through scuba diving on the island or diving along cool coast.The deep-water contains more than 800 various kinds of corals, and plethora of other sea inhabitants. The clear waters gives divers an optimal chance to observe sea-life such as barracuda, sea angels, dolphins, sea hedgehogs, mantas, and whale sharks.
Most Popular Diving Destinations:
Dihamri – This lagoon around 50 meters deep and contains more than 80 types of corals and 150 species of fish
Rosh - Is a protected area with a reef expanding down approximately 1 km from the coast and a depth between 10 and 15 meters.
Adho - Contains a diving location that is up to 30 meters in depth
Erissel - Explore this protected area that contains several shipwrecks.
Shuab -Five kilometers from the coast of Qalansiya, is the largest ship-wreck on Socotra. Along with crystal-clear waters, where you can see dolphins, and if your lucky whale sharks too.
Qalansiya - Experience the coastal fishing town and lifestyle of the Socotri fishermen in Qalansiya. It is the perfect location to catch Swordfish, Kingfish, Marlin, and also a yellowfin Tuna and huge red Snappers and times sharks too.
*Friendly reminder: Fishing and Diving gear is not included, please make sure you bring your own proper equipment. Basic Scuba masks and shoes are avaliable l for rent on the island.
Most Popular Diving Destinations:
Dihamri – This lagoon around 50 meters deep and contains more than 80 types of corals and 150 species of fish
Rosh - Is a protected area with a reef expanding down approximately 1 km from the coast and a depth between 10 and 15 meters.
Adho - Contains a diving location that is up to 30 meters in depth
Erissel - Explore this protected area that contains several shipwrecks.
Shuab -Five kilometers from the coast of Qalansiya, is the largest ship-wreck on Socotra. Along with crystal-clear waters, where you can see dolphins, and if your lucky whale sharks too.
Qalansiya - Experience the coastal fishing town and lifestyle of the Socotri fishermen in Qalansiya. It is the perfect location to catch Swordfish, Kingfish, Marlin, and also a yellowfin Tuna and huge red Snappers and times sharks too.
*Friendly reminder: Fishing and Diving gear is not included, please make sure you bring your own proper equipment. Basic Scuba masks and shoes are avaliable l for rent on the island.
Trek through Mountains and Wadis!
Journey through a geologically diverse landscape ranging from the over-arching Hajhier mountain ranges to the deep valleys, or Wadis (in Arabic). Routes have to be carefully chosen as some hikes can be more difficult than others. Socotra.Rafatours offers full services in organizing your hikes.Read about some epic destination below:
Most Popular Hiking Destinations:
Haghier Mountains - Trek through some of the highest granite peaks on Socotra, reaching up to 5,000 ft (1,500 meters).
Firmhin Forest -Explore this forest containing the largest number of Dragon Blood trees on the island.
Dixam plateau - Located in the central part of Socotra, you can capture the epic background mountain chain created by the Haghier range.
Wadi Ayhf - Knowns as the greenest place of Socotra. Its unique microclimate and geography keeps the vegetation magnificent all the year round.
Dirhur -Contains small fresh reservoir with along a mossy coast accompanied by Egyptian vultures soaring high in the sky.
Wadi Shifa and Homhil - A paradise of full of Dragon Blood Trees and bottle trees.
Homhil is prehistoric paradise with pools filled with fresh monsoonal water and rich with biodiversity.
Mumi plateau - A plateau situated off the usual routes, containing a beautiful array of Socotran Bottle Trees.
Most Popular Hiking Destinations:
Haghier Mountains - Trek through some of the highest granite peaks on Socotra, reaching up to 5,000 ft (1,500 meters).
Firmhin Forest -Explore this forest containing the largest number of Dragon Blood trees on the island.
Dixam plateau - Located in the central part of Socotra, you can capture the epic background mountain chain created by the Haghier range.
Wadi Ayhf - Knowns as the greenest place of Socotra. Its unique microclimate and geography keeps the vegetation magnificent all the year round.
Dirhur -Contains small fresh reservoir with along a mossy coast accompanied by Egyptian vultures soaring high in the sky.
Wadi Shifa and Homhil - A paradise of full of Dragon Blood Trees and bottle trees.
Homhil is prehistoric paradise with pools filled with fresh monsoonal water and rich with biodiversity.
Mumi plateau - A plateau situated off the usual routes, containing a beautiful array of Socotran Bottle Trees.
Camp Along the Coast and Mountain Ranges!
Discover the coastal magic from beach to beach, as Socotra contains several coastal camping sites to experience the raw natural beauty of the landscape. Most sites give you a chance to stay near some of the most uniques landscape you will ever see. Whether, your seeking a raw adventure or unique getaway to relax, the sunsets, stars, and natural beauty of Socotra is breathtaking.
Most Popular Camping Destinations:
Arher - Is one of the beautiful parts of Socotra. There are huge dunes, beaches, cliffs, fantastic rocks and small oasis on the shore of the Arabian sea.
Dihamri - Get a chance to camp along the coral reefs at Dihamri protected area.
Dixam plateau - The Shebahon viewpoint gives a fabulous vista overlooking Dirhur canyon (wadi) where we will see unusual yet beautiful rock formations.
Detwaah Lagoon - Is a marine protected area renowned for its magic landscape. You will be charmed by a white sandy tongue surrounded by turquoise waters of the bay. This surely is one of the best views on the island. You can jump in the shallow sea there and enjoy the paradise. Only be careful with stingrays!
There is also an array of sea birds to be seen in the lagoon.
*Hotels are not available in all parts of the island. Hadibo, the main city only has a handful of hotels. When you are packing please keep in mind that most tours are usually in a camping style. Tents are provided as well as sleeping mats and blankets.
Most Popular Camping Destinations:
Arher - Is one of the beautiful parts of Socotra. There are huge dunes, beaches, cliffs, fantastic rocks and small oasis on the shore of the Arabian sea.
Dihamri - Get a chance to camp along the coral reefs at Dihamri protected area.
Dixam plateau - The Shebahon viewpoint gives a fabulous vista overlooking Dirhur canyon (wadi) where we will see unusual yet beautiful rock formations.
Detwaah Lagoon - Is a marine protected area renowned for its magic landscape. You will be charmed by a white sandy tongue surrounded by turquoise waters of the bay. This surely is one of the best views on the island. You can jump in the shallow sea there and enjoy the paradise. Only be careful with stingrays!
There is also an array of sea birds to be seen in the lagoon.
*Hotels are not available in all parts of the island. Hadibo, the main city only has a handful of hotels. When you are packing please keep in mind that most tours are usually in a camping style. Tents are provided as well as sleeping mats and blankets.
7 DAY STANDARD TOUR ON SOCOTRA Day 1: Arrival to Socotra - Explore Hadibo - Visit Delisha Beach -Dinner - Overnight in Hadibo Hotel. Day 2: Depart Hadibo – Hoq Cave – Overnight Camping Arher Beach One hour trek to cave entrance to explore stalactites, stalagmites, and the calcite glaze preserved ancient writing on the cave walls. Next to Arher beach which is a meeting point of fresh water from the mountain and salt water from the Arabian sea. Camp overnight camping at Arher beach Day 3: Depart Arher – Visit Homhil Protected Area - Overnight at Dihamri Breakfast at Arher and we will then make our way to Homhil to explore the forest, then we will drive to Dihamri Protected Area. Spend time swimming/snorkeling in Dihamri sea that is blessed with more than 200 fish species. Dinner and camp overnight in Dihamri. Day 4: Depart Dihamri – Visit Dogub cave – Visit Hayf – Visit Wadi Dfaarho – Overnight at Aomak Beach Head southward to Dogub cave to explore the stalactites and stalagmites. Then to Wadi Dfaarho to see traditional villages and natural pools at the bottom of the canyon. Then we will continue onwards to the colossal sand dunes of Hayf and Zaheq. You can climb the dunes for a view that is truly worth it. Then to Aomak beach where you can swim, relax, and camp near the clear waters of the Indian Ocean. Day 5: Depart Aomak – Explore Dixam plateau – Wadi Druher- Overnight in Dixam Dixam plateau and Shebahon viewpoint is renowned for Dragon blood trees, the resin of which is collected, used and traded by the people of Socotra. The area is also home to the endemic and rare Socotra Bunting (estimated at 1,000 pairs). The Shebahon viewpoint gives a fabulous view overlooking Dirhur canyon (wadi) where we will see beautiful rock formations.Dinner and overnight stay will be at Dixam campsite. Day 6: Dixam plateau – Qalansiya – Detwah Lagoon Next we will head westward to Qalansiya, the fishermen’s town, which consists of traditional Socotri houses, narrow alleyways and a long beach full of fishing boats ready to set off for today’s catch. We will then continue to neighboring Detwah lagoon for dinner and overnight camping. Day 7: Qalansiya – Shouab beach – Return to Hadibo Take a boat ride to Shouab beach to swim and seeing beautiful rock cliffs and dolphins, and mangroves on the way. Afterwards return to Detwah lagoon for lunch, and return to Hadibo for dinner and overnight stay at the hotel. Day 8: Departure from Socotra After an early breakfast, you can visit a souvenir shop, plant nursery, Socotra woman association, and market, while waiting for transfer to Socotra airport. |
14- DAY TOUR ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival to Socotra· Check in the hotel in Hadibo
Visit Delisha beach· Dinner and overnight in hotel in Hadibo.
Day 2: Hadibo/Dihamri Protected Area· Drive to Dihamri marine protected area· Dinner and overnight camping at Dihamri
Day 3: Dihmari/Qareah lagoon/ Homhil· Depart from Dihamri campsite after breakfast· Stop at Qareah lagoon en-route. It is the largest lagoon on the island and we will hopefully see the flamingos, herons, and greenshank.· Explore Homhil and freshwater pools· Dinner and overnight in Homhil P/A
Day 4: Homhil /Wadi Shifa/ Arher beach /Ras Erissel, walk down to Wadi Shifa· Next to Dedam cave, a small cave for quick lunch.·Northeast coast of the Island to Arher area,·Ras Erissel, the most easterly point of the island, where the waters of the Arabian sea meet the Indian ocean and explore the windy east extreme of the island.· Dinner and overnight camp at Arher campsite.
Day 5: Arher beach/ Hoq cave/ Arher· Drive to the base of Hoq cave in Terbak village.· Hike to Hoq cave · Dinner and overnight in Arher beach.
Day 6: Arher/Wadi Dfaarho/Aomak beach/Hayaf Dogub cave· After breakfeast in Arher, we will go to Dogub cave and see the Desert Rose tree on the canyon walls. The vegetation here is lush green and there are birds and forest of frankincense trees.· Dinner and overnight on Aomak beach campsite.
Day 7: Hayaf/Zaheq sand dunes /Degab cave/Mateaf beach· Visit the clossal sand dunes of Hayaf and Zaheq created by the seasonal wind of Socotra. You can climb the dunes for a view that is truly worth then we will drive to the south up to Mateaf beach where you can swim in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean.· Dinner and overnight at Mateaf beach.
Day 8: Mateaf/Dixam plateau/Shebahon viewpoint/Wadi Dirhur· Head towards Dixam plateau and Shebahon viewpoint· Overlooking Dirhur canyon (wadi) and have lunch and take a swim in the freshwater pool with a natural slide.· Dinner and overnight in Dixam plateau.
Day 9: – Wadi Dfarho/Firmhin forest /Haggier mountains /Skand· Hiking the wadi Dfarho for 3 hours· Lunch in Dfarho: after lunch we will· Hike 2 hours to Firmhin Dragoon blood trees forest which is the most density area of dragoon blood trees, we will hike up to Skand area· Dinner and overnight in Thaher.
Day 10: Wadi Madhiro/Tanareh/Wady Ayhaft· Hike down to wadi Madhiro and to Tanareh. After you refresh yourself we will take you for a trip to wadi Ayhaft National Park, considered as a natural nursery due to its large abundance of endemic trees, plants, and birds. Dinner and overnight at Ayhaft natural park.
Day 11: Wadi Ayhaft/turtles beach of Qadama/Qalansiya· Visit Ayhaft Canyon National Park, considered as a natural nursery due to its large abundance of endemic trees, plants, and birds.· Drive to Qadama beach where we can see the turtles beach· Dinner and overnight in Qadama beach.
Day12+13: Qadama /Qalansiya /Detwah lagoon P/A· Head towards Qalansiya· Visit and explore Detwah lagoon which is a marine protected area renowned for its·Dinner and overnight at Detwah lagoon.
Day 14: Qalansiya /Golden sands of Shouab beach/Hadibo· Visit Shouab beach by boat ride, seeing beautiful rock cliffs and dolphins on the way.· Return boat trip to Detwah lagoon for lunch, we will drive back to the capital city of Socotra (Hadibo).· Dinner and overnight at hotel in Hadibo.
Day 15: Departure from Socotra
Visit Delisha beach· Dinner and overnight in hotel in Hadibo.
Day 2: Hadibo/Dihamri Protected Area· Drive to Dihamri marine protected area· Dinner and overnight camping at Dihamri
Day 3: Dihmari/Qareah lagoon/ Homhil· Depart from Dihamri campsite after breakfast· Stop at Qareah lagoon en-route. It is the largest lagoon on the island and we will hopefully see the flamingos, herons, and greenshank.· Explore Homhil and freshwater pools· Dinner and overnight in Homhil P/A
Day 4: Homhil /Wadi Shifa/ Arher beach /Ras Erissel, walk down to Wadi Shifa· Next to Dedam cave, a small cave for quick lunch.·Northeast coast of the Island to Arher area,·Ras Erissel, the most easterly point of the island, where the waters of the Arabian sea meet the Indian ocean and explore the windy east extreme of the island.· Dinner and overnight camp at Arher campsite.
Day 5: Arher beach/ Hoq cave/ Arher· Drive to the base of Hoq cave in Terbak village.· Hike to Hoq cave · Dinner and overnight in Arher beach.
Day 6: Arher/Wadi Dfaarho/Aomak beach/Hayaf Dogub cave· After breakfeast in Arher, we will go to Dogub cave and see the Desert Rose tree on the canyon walls. The vegetation here is lush green and there are birds and forest of frankincense trees.· Dinner and overnight on Aomak beach campsite.
Day 7: Hayaf/Zaheq sand dunes /Degab cave/Mateaf beach· Visit the clossal sand dunes of Hayaf and Zaheq created by the seasonal wind of Socotra. You can climb the dunes for a view that is truly worth then we will drive to the south up to Mateaf beach where you can swim in the clear waters of the Indian Ocean.· Dinner and overnight at Mateaf beach.
Day 8: Mateaf/Dixam plateau/Shebahon viewpoint/Wadi Dirhur· Head towards Dixam plateau and Shebahon viewpoint· Overlooking Dirhur canyon (wadi) and have lunch and take a swim in the freshwater pool with a natural slide.· Dinner and overnight in Dixam plateau.
Day 9: – Wadi Dfarho/Firmhin forest /Haggier mountains /Skand· Hiking the wadi Dfarho for 3 hours· Lunch in Dfarho: after lunch we will· Hike 2 hours to Firmhin Dragoon blood trees forest which is the most density area of dragoon blood trees, we will hike up to Skand area· Dinner and overnight in Thaher.
Day 10: Wadi Madhiro/Tanareh/Wady Ayhaft· Hike down to wadi Madhiro and to Tanareh. After you refresh yourself we will take you for a trip to wadi Ayhaft National Park, considered as a natural nursery due to its large abundance of endemic trees, plants, and birds. Dinner and overnight at Ayhaft natural park.
Day 11: Wadi Ayhaft/turtles beach of Qadama/Qalansiya· Visit Ayhaft Canyon National Park, considered as a natural nursery due to its large abundance of endemic trees, plants, and birds.· Drive to Qadama beach where we can see the turtles beach· Dinner and overnight in Qadama beach.
Day12+13: Qadama /Qalansiya /Detwah lagoon P/A· Head towards Qalansiya· Visit and explore Detwah lagoon which is a marine protected area renowned for its·Dinner and overnight at Detwah lagoon.
Day 14: Qalansiya /Golden sands of Shouab beach/Hadibo· Visit Shouab beach by boat ride, seeing beautiful rock cliffs and dolphins on the way.· Return boat trip to Detwah lagoon for lunch, we will drive back to the capital city of Socotra (Hadibo).· Dinner and overnight at hotel in Hadibo.
Day 15: Departure from Socotra
Create Your Own Experience...
EXPLORE OTHER TOURS
BIRD OBSERVATIONS: Around 320 bird can be observed while only a handful are endemic such as a Socotra Starling, the Sunbird of Socotra of Chalcomitra balfouri, Socotra insularis, and Socotran Grosbeak. While more than 45 bird species breed on the island such as Forbes Bystry, the Somali Starling, and the Egyptian Egyptian vulture. Observe coastal birds, such as Bigger Flamingoes, Grey Herons (cinerea Heron), Sooty Gull, and Black Winged Stilt.
CAVE TOURS: Home to more than 50 caves characteristic of Karst geographic formations among them is the noteworthy is Hoq cave. The cave is more than 3 km long with a small lake right at the end. There is a footpath noted by reflecting tapes for safety reasons. The temperature in a cave is constant within a year between 25 and 27 °C with humidity is more than 95 percent. Make sure to bring a headlight.
CULTURAL TOURS: Experience the mix of the Indian Ocean from Arab, African and Indian influences that create the unique cultural landscapes of Socotra through locals, foods, and traditions.
BOTANICAL TOURS Learn about traditional medicine, using herbs, plants, and sea products from a trained guide. You will be able to see and taste yellow berries of a tree of Ziziphus Spina-Christi of which branches the wreath for Jesus Christ was made. Tour will be completed in Adeeb, outside Hadibo where local plants grow up from saplings then to be returned back in their native habitat.
CAMEL TREKKING: Explore Socotra on "the desert ships" to discover the fascinating landscapes.
FISHING GT PROGRAM: Socotra is known as an ideal fishing dock because of its location in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. If you look for a fascinating fishing trip, plan your holiday on the island of Socotra. Trips can be in advance planned to join local fishermen. Socotra guides will choose the best location for your fishing trip according to season. Among the catch are Barracudas, as they - the most widespread here but also the Swordfish, Kingfish, Marlin, and Yellowfin Tuna and huge red Snappers. Some fishermen catch even sharks! October to May will provide you the most fascinating fishing event in your life!
Note: Fishing gear is not provided, you have to take your own gear with you.
CAVE TOURS: Home to more than 50 caves characteristic of Karst geographic formations among them is the noteworthy is Hoq cave. The cave is more than 3 km long with a small lake right at the end. There is a footpath noted by reflecting tapes for safety reasons. The temperature in a cave is constant within a year between 25 and 27 °C with humidity is more than 95 percent. Make sure to bring a headlight.
CULTURAL TOURS: Experience the mix of the Indian Ocean from Arab, African and Indian influences that create the unique cultural landscapes of Socotra through locals, foods, and traditions.
BOTANICAL TOURS Learn about traditional medicine, using herbs, plants, and sea products from a trained guide. You will be able to see and taste yellow berries of a tree of Ziziphus Spina-Christi of which branches the wreath for Jesus Christ was made. Tour will be completed in Adeeb, outside Hadibo where local plants grow up from saplings then to be returned back in their native habitat.
CAMEL TREKKING: Explore Socotra on "the desert ships" to discover the fascinating landscapes.
FISHING GT PROGRAM: Socotra is known as an ideal fishing dock because of its location in the Indian Ocean and the Arabian Sea. If you look for a fascinating fishing trip, plan your holiday on the island of Socotra. Trips can be in advance planned to join local fishermen. Socotra guides will choose the best location for your fishing trip according to season. Among the catch are Barracudas, as they - the most widespread here but also the Swordfish, Kingfish, Marlin, and Yellowfin Tuna and huge red Snappers. Some fishermen catch even sharks! October to May will provide you the most fascinating fishing event in your life!
Note: Fishing gear is not provided, you have to take your own gear with you.
TRAVEL COMFORTABLY WITH US
All Tours Include the Following
We offer “all-inclusive” packages with the following services:
- Meet and assist service and airport transfers to and from Socotra Airport
- Car rentals (4x4car and pick-up, including driver and fuel)
- Hotel reservation in Hadibo
- International flights from Abu-Dhabi to Socotra
- Visas
- Tours for individual travellers, couples or families, groups (tailor-made itineraries, standard programmes, daily excursions…)
- Special activities: trekking tours, fishing GT expeditions, diving, camel riding , archaeological tours…
- Guides, fluent in Arabic, English, French, Spanish, Italian, German, Portuguese, Slovenian and Serbian, Russian, Croatian, Romanian
- Tours Includes: Transfers in comfortable Land Cruisers with good drivers·English-speaking educated guides·
- Local trekking guides’ services·
- Quality camping equipment
- Rental fee of boats
- entrance tickets to protected areas
- Specially arranged well-cooked meals on Socotra· Water and beverages during day trip.
Preparing your Visit to Socotra
Visa can be obtained through our company, from the Socotran Immigration Office
We work directly with the island’s immigration office. A scan of your passport will be need to be sent to process the visa. A PDF visa will be issued by the Socotra immigration authority. Upon arrival at the island at the airport Socotra your passport with be stamped for entry, and then you will be given the original visa, which you must save until your departure back to Abu-Dhabi.
Flights to Socotra are operating once a week through Air Arabia departing from Abu-Dhabi, we can help with booking your flight to Socotra. There is no possibility to book and purchase tickets online. Please reach out for more detail on this.
Staying on Socotra is a raw experience, a majority of the island contains protected areas, that is why your stay will mostly be done in a camping environment. You are able to select from five hotels in Hadibo, some ecolodges located in suburbs of the capital, six ecological campings in various locations around the island or to camp in the wild nature, on the coast
We work directly with the island’s immigration office. A scan of your passport will be need to be sent to process the visa. A PDF visa will be issued by the Socotra immigration authority. Upon arrival at the island at the airport Socotra your passport with be stamped for entry, and then you will be given the original visa, which you must save until your departure back to Abu-Dhabi.
Flights to Socotra are operating once a week through Air Arabia departing from Abu-Dhabi, we can help with booking your flight to Socotra. There is no possibility to book and purchase tickets online. Please reach out for more detail on this.
Staying on Socotra is a raw experience, a majority of the island contains protected areas, that is why your stay will mostly be done in a camping environment. You are able to select from five hotels in Hadibo, some ecolodges located in suburbs of the capital, six ecological campings in various locations around the island or to camp in the wild nature, on the coast
TRAVEL ADVICE
CustomsThe importation of alcoholic beverages is prohibited and is subject to confiscation. Cigarettes to 600 pieces or 60 cigars. Perfume or eau de toilette - 1 bottle, gold jewelry is allowed only for women by weight not more than 350g. The number of imported gifts or souvenirs should be no more than $ 450 in total.
It is forbidden to import any items of Israeli origin.
Gold bullion and products made of precious metals cannot be imported without the permission of the Central Bank of the country. Prohibited the importation of any products of erotic content, firearms, weapons for underwater hunting, drugs (except for products necessary for the time of the trip personally to the tourist).
Antiques, weapons, products made of precious metals are subject to mandatory customs control at the exit.
It is strictly forbidden to take out plants, seeds, stones, corals, shells from Socotra island.
About money
Yemen's monetary unit is RIAL, which is attached to the US dollar. In circulation, there are banknotes in denominations of 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 rials, as well as coins in denominations of 1, 5 and 10 rials.
Exchange rate:
Yemen Riyal (YER) / United States Dollar (USD)
100 USD = 25,025 YER (the rates are changing every day)
Information on the latest exchange rates can be found online
Tip: Best to Bring Cash
Whatever the prices, for example, the euro, the British pound or the Swiss frank, the Yemeni prices will always be in dollars, but you can pay in any currency.
Problems with currency exchange on the island do not arise, it can be done in the bank, large stores, and hotels. Banks usually work in the morning (from 8am to 6pm on weekdays, closed on weekends, Friday and Saturday).
Credit cards are not accepted. So it is better to carry cash (dollars). There are few ATMs and they either do not work, or the maximum can give $ 300 in riyals.
It is very important - MasterCards do not work on Socotra, only VISA, and then, only if the ATM is connected to the system in Sanaa. It so happens that it is switched off without warning and it will be simply impossible to withdraw money.
Prices
Even if Yemen remains one of the poorest countries in the world, prices are high here - snacks cost 1.5 Euros (tea and flatbread), lunch at a regular cafe is 6-10 Euros per person, lunch at a restaurant is 10-15 Euros per person.
Tax refund (5%) is not possible, because the tax-free system is not developed.
It is better to carry the exchanged money with you, especially in Socotra, and it should also be noted that it is not customary to bargain in Socotra on the market, as is customary in other Arab countries.
The tour price is all inclusive but bring extra buy if you want to buy souvenirs, scarfs, local cigarettes, cat, gourmet seafood.
Food
Paid full-board meals will include products such as meat (except pork), fish, rice, beans, vegetables, bread, water, and fruits.
If you don’t have enough of the offered fruits or drinks, you’ll have to order them for an extra fee.
About communication
Mobile communication operates throughout the island. The Internet will be very slow, almost non-non-exsistence and only in the hotel.
What to take with you:
Tip: Pack for tropical like weather
-Hat, best to avoid any sunburns.
-Flashlight (forehead and normal) - it can be useful not only in the campsite but also in cases of power failure.
-Coffee in the morning, it is better to take instant with you. Good coffee beans you cannot buy on the island.
-International adapter. Yemen connectors are different from European or American, for example. In addition, the voltage in Yemen is 220, at best, it can sometimes drop to 170, depending on the generators.
-Comfortable shoes (special trekking shoes or lightweight sneakers). Especially when descending on rocky terrain there is a risk of dislocation.
Clothing for men: Shorts are not above the knees (light pants are better, for example, linen or shorts below the knees), upstairs a T-shirt with sleeves (it is better to do without T-shirts). To avoid sunburn, a long-sleeved top is recommended.
Clothing for women: If you are going to be in public places, women do not need to wear the burqa, hijab, niqab, or cover their faces. Though legs should be covered as much as possible especially in Hadibo - I recommend grabbing a large scarf (besides a cap or hat), which can be useful where many (for example, it can be tied like a skirt at the entrance to a mosque). On the beaches, both men and women can wear anything (bikinis, T-shirts, etc.)
Light jacket (preferably waterproof), because, despite the fact that it will be hot during the day, at night the temperature can drop significantly, especially in the mountains.
Car Adapter
What to bring to the campsite:
1) Sunglasses
2) Sunblock cream (at least 30 SPF, generally better than 30-50 depending on skin type)
3) After Sun Cream
4) Hat or cap, panama
5) Anti-mosquito cream or spray
6) Light sandals (shale) for beach walks
7) Swimwear
8) Sleeping bags (optional)
9) A set for snorkeling (who plans to do it), on the island you can rent them for $ 5-10 per day
10) Head torch
11) Normal flashlight
12) Garbage bags just in case (we will not pollute this wonderful island!)
13) Wet sanitary napkins
14) Binoculars for observing animals at will.
15) Spare batteries for vehicles
16) Raincoat (recommended)
17) Towels
18) Beach mat (mats for seating during meals or rest are not needed, they are at the campsite, there are mattresses for tents)
19) Best to take a hiking backpack
There will be no roads on the island so you can carry a suitcase!
With regards to clothing - it should be light, a lot of clothing is also not required.
The weather in October-January is +30 degrees celsius during the day, there is no rain, but at night the temperature can drop to +20 degrees celcius or even less. In April and May, the weather will be hotter, in the daytime to 42 Celsius degrees, at night 27-29 degrees.
Health care
Caution: Although we will do our best to take care of your health, we cannot be held responsible for your physical condition. Consider the following as recommendations:
In general, any special vaccinations or courses of prophylactic drugs are not required.
During the camping, you will sleep in tents equipped with an anti-mosquito net. In many hotels, this grid is also on the windows, but often they are not there or they are damaged, so repellents (or closing windows) are the best solution.
If you have doubts about the hygienic conditions in restaurants, order only well-prepared dishes and no fresh vegetables in salads (only food cooked on the fire and not stale!). During the camping, we cook our own food and we will always wash the vegetables thoroughly before serving or preparing salads.
When buying fruit in the markets, always wash them before eating !!!
Water should be drunk only bottled.
If you are on a special diet or you need to take medications, please let us know and take these pills or prescription for them with you. There are many well-equipped pharmacies on the island, but they may not have all the necessary medicines available.
· • In general, if you do not drink dirty water and observe dietary precautions, it is very unlikely that you catch intestinal disorders, hepatitis or salmonellosis.
· • Malaria prophylaxis is very harmful in itself, especially the one that is sold to us, it can cause hallucinations, headaches, etc., so it’s better again just precautions - repellent! Although, in recent years not a single case of malaria has been recorded on the island.
Disclaimer: This information is strictly advisory in nature, we are not doctors and we cannot say for sure, for official information is always better to contact the relevant Health Authority. These are, in general, all common diseases that are possible in a given region, unless precautions are taken.
It is necessary to take with you only a first-aid kit (remedies for headaches, for the stomach, disinfecting, antipyretic, etc.).
Souvenirs
The greatest interest in buying on the island are such goods as myrrh, incense, silver, forged chests, dried fruits, various clay products, incense, honey, dragon blood tree resin, fabrics, scarfs, forged lanterns, and carpets.
People on the island are very friendly and friendly, men and children love to be photographed. If you want to do a good deed, take notebooks, pencils, and pens with you, children and schools of the island will be grateful to you for any stationery. In any case, I ask you to take into account that this is an underdeveloped Muslim country, and the above rules of conduct must be strictly observed, as sources of income, and for ordinary locals sometimes also a source of inconvenience. Please also behave very politely with the locals, always greet them in response, respect their elders, do not take the initiative in dealing with women, do not discuss loudly and do not look closely at people. Children can and should bring school supplies as a gift if there is a desire (pens, writing utensils). You can take pictures of local residents and their homes only with their permission and in no case should you take pictures of women and the military.
About Me
Hi, my name is Rafat, a native from the island of Socotra, Yemen. I spent my childhood discovering the untouched nature and unique wildlife on my island, this passion allowing me to become a tour guide of 10 years. Where I am fortunate to share some of the most wondrous places on earth such as the Dragons Blood Tree forests. I am an adventurous runner and cyclist; in fact I am the first and the only local person from Socotra to have completed the 100 Mile Ultra Marathon, and have cycled 140 km around the island. My dream and hopes are to continue sharing Socotra's breathtaking landscape, rare wild life, and unique cultural heritage with the rest of the world. I speak three languages: the local Socotri language, Arabic, and English. I look forward to exploring this Island with you. Thank you for visiting and do not hesitate to ask any questions.
-Rafat
Tour Reviews
"Rafat..my friend now..a person of confidence and someone you can rely on..Rafat becomes the first Socotri who completed 100 miles running with me around Socotra island during my Jurassic Ultra Challenge in May 2022, first time ever..if you want to feel the mystical sensation of this environment, to experience a true adventure on Socotra island 🏝 Yemen 🇾🇪 then don’t hesitate to contact him..I pretty sure that he will build a tailored adventure just for you..a lifetime experience, deep feelings of satisfaction, surely don’t hesitate to help yourself !"
Hichame Moubarak 🇫🇷
Ultra Endurance AthleteTour review- "Rafat is wonderful guide with big knowledge about Socotra, traveling with him was amazing experience and adventure ! He is very helpful and always ready to help. Our group spend amazing 2 weeks in Socotra thanks to him!"Tour Review
- "My adventure on the beautiful archipelago of Socotra could not be without Rafat as my tour guide. Rafat, a local to the island is so energetic and knowledgeable, he loves to share about his life on the island and is accommodating to your needs to make sure you get the best experience. He goes beyond to make sure you have an amazing time, introducing you both to the raw natural beauty of Socotra and the unique local culture and customs. All this while capturing your best memories, as he takes some amazing photos. I was grateful to have a caring guide and could not have asked for anyone better to help me discover Socotra."
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November 2021
Araiba K.
@khan_questTour Review
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CONTACT INFORMATION
Phone: +967777637660
E-mail: socotra.rafatours@gmail.com
Address: 20 street, Hadibu, Socotra Island, Yemen
E-mail: socotra.rafatours@gmail.com
Address: 20 street, Hadibu, Socotra Island, Yemen
